<p>How would one go about this? My major problem is the conversation. I honestly don't know what to talk about and how to approach someone. I mean besides the basic major, dorm hall, hometown kinda questions I'm plain lost. What do you do if neither one of you finds that topic that clicks and you're left in an awkward silence?</p>
<p>Is it possible to make friends in class?</p>
<p>My main advice is to: ask leading questions, not questions that the person can answer with "yes" or "no". Example: "Which of your classes do you like best?" Follow-up question: "What do you like about it?" </p>
<p>Even better way to ask the question is to provide some info about yourself: "My favorite class is psychology because the professor is hilarious. Yesterday he taught wearing a clown suit. Which of your classes do you like best?"</p>
<p>Advice from on-line sites:</p>
<p>"Keep up with current events. Make small talk about the news, sports, your community, or politics (unless politics is too controversial. On second thought, that can generate some pretty fiery dialogues!)</p>
<p>Comment on a piece of clothing or accessory. Ask where it came from, what the significance is, how much it cost (just kidding). Making small talk is about being observant about people you don't know well.</p>
<p>Pay attention to what they're saying. When you're making small talk, follow up on phrases; for instance, if they say they're "excellent", ask why – ask where you can get some. If they mention that they're exhausted, follow up on it. When you're making small talk, remember that great conversations and good connections can be just around the corner.</p>
<p>Share an anecdote about your day. Did you lose your keys or find $10? </p>
<p>Maybe you ate at a new restaurant recently, or found a great new CD. Making small talk is about sharing the little things...."</p>
<p>Tips for starting conversations with people you don't know: How</a> to Make Small Talk: 10 Tips For Starting Conversations With People You Don't Know</p>
<p>How to make small talk naturally: How</a> to Make Small Talk Naturally - Redbook</p>
<p>12 tips for making small talk:
"1. As you prepare for a function, come up with three things to talk about as well as four generic questions that will get others talking. If you've met the host before, try to remember things about her, such as her passion for a sport or a charity you're both involved in.</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Be the first to say "Hello." If you're not sure the other person will remember you, offer your name to ease the pressure. For example, "Charles Bartlett? Lynn Schmidt -- good to see you again." Smile first and always shake hands when you meet someone.</p></li>
<li><p>Take your time during introductions. Make an extra effort to remember names and use them frequently.</p></li>
<li><p>Get the other person talking by leading with a common ground statement regarding the event or location and then asking a related open-ended question. For example, "Attendance looks higher than last year, how long have you been coming to these conventions?" You can also ask them about their trip in or how they know the host...."
CNN.com</a> - 12 tips for making small talk - Mar 4, 2005</p></li>
</ol>
<p>10 big rules of small talk: The</a> 10 Big Rules of Small Talk | Life Soul : RealSimple.com</p>
<p>Learn</a> How To Make 'Small Talk', And Expand Your Circle Of Friends - CBS News</p>